Mindanao peace caravan heads to Manila

A peace caravan comprising various ethnic and religious groups from across Mindanao set off today for Manila to show support for the peace deal recently struck between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

The so-called framework agreement will be signed at the presidential palace in Manila on Monday.

"We are a big part of this historic event,â€ť said Mariel Andrea Gardiola, networking and liaison officer of the Mindanao Peoplesâ€™ Caucus (MPC), which organized the caravan.

MPC secretary-general, Mary Ann Arnado, called on all of Mindanaoâ€™s political leaders to support the framework agreement including the more critical task of implementing it.

Organizers of the caravan expect to arrive in Manila on Sunday afternoon ahead of Mondayâ€™s signing.